By 2030, Washington State’s elderly population is forecasted to reach nearly 1.7 million people, or 1/5 of the state’s total population.  This is in contrast to the nearly 460,000 people over 65 in the 2010 Census.

In particular, from 2000 to 2010, Seattle actually realized a decrease in the number of people 65 and better according to the 2010 Census.  However, during the same time Seattle saw its greatest growth in the 55 to 64 range.  This dip of elders may create a false sense that action can be delayed in improving systems within the city to accommodate the pending graying of the Emerald City, however, now is the best time to prepare.

Today, three generations make up the 65 and better population.  These include:

GI or Greatest Generation with people born between 1900 and 1924.  As a group, the Census Bureau shows that in 2010, we currently had 1.9 million 90+ olds in the United States representing 4.7 percent of those 65 and better versus just 2.8 percent in 1980.  This group is often identified with great sacrifice during WW II, and being parents of the “Baby Boom” generation.

Silent Generation with people born between 1925 and 1945.  Most of this generation remembers the hardship of the great depression as children, and work hard to prevent such occurrences in their personal lives, resulting in a relatively ambitious generation.

Baby Boomer Generation with people born between 1946 and 1964.  With 76 million children born into this generation, this group has lived through some of the most dramatic social changes in the history of the United States.  Right now, this generation is faced with the task of both caring for their aging parents (many in the GI Generation) and supporting their children financial.

Every day in the US an estimated 10,000 individuals turn 65 years of age, leading to family conversations that include an array of new terms.  Below is a list of five terms you should know to face the new realities of a rapidly maturing society:

• Aging in Place.  Many, if given the choice, would choose to stay in their own home.  Making modifications to an existing home often include fall prevention measures such as grab bars in the bathroom; support for getting up and down stairs such as ramps; bringing in support to handle home maintenance, and care services that may cost on average $20-30 dollars an hour depending on experience, licensing, and insurance.
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC).  This type of community offers multiple levels of services including independent living options.  Some Seattle-based CCRCs are rental based, while most require a “buy-in” where a portion is returned at a later date or the full amount of the “buy-in” amortizes over time.  A “buy-in” can range from $30,000 to over $1 million. CCRCs may or may not offer services also described below.
• Assisted Living.  This type of community is built on the positive premise of socialization and individualized care support in a more residential setting.  Services benefit those who need support with activities of daily living (ADLs) which include dressing, bathing, eating, toileting, and transitioning from place to place; medication management often is included.
• Memory Care. This is a community or part of a community built to provide a secure environment for those with dementia and other cognitive challenges.  The community should provide a stimulating, engaging experience that respects where a resident is in their cognitive progression.
• Nursing Home.  This is a place where convalescent and/or chronic care with nurse involvement and oversight is available for patients who are unable to properly care for themselves.  This type of facility is often used for those with rehabilitation needs following a hospital stay or by those facing complex disease challenges.
• Adult Family Home (AFH).  This is a residential home licensed to provide personal care focused on ADLs for up to six non-related individuals.  Though it provides fewer amenities and resources than an assisted living community, an AFH often provides its services at a lower price.

 

For additional information, please consult  www.AegisonMadison.com.